Proponents say it will benefit farmers and help boost sales of food products made with Garden State produce.

"There is a great interest in buying local and supporting our farmers," said Douglas H. Fisher, New Jersey Secretary of Agriculture. "State agency food concession patrons do not have to go far to get high quality, healthy Jersey Fresh produce and other state agricultural products."

"Jersey Fresh" is an advertising and promotional program developed by the state Agriculture Department in 1983 to draw consumer attention to the availability of New Jersey farm products. Growers who register with the department's quality grading program are allowed to use the "Jersey Fresh" logo on their packages.

"Serving homegrown produce or baked goods at our state facilities sends a positive message about our state, supports local economies and helps preserve New Jersey's farming heritage," said Assemblywoman Alison Littell McHose (R-Franklin), who co-sponsored the measure in that chamber with Celeste Riley (D-Bridgeton).

"When people eat at a New Jersey facility, they should have no doubt they're in the Garden State with plenty of menu options featuring Jersey peaches, corn and tomatoes to choose from," McHose said.

In the senate, the measure was sponsored by Steven Oroho (R-Sussex) and Jeff Van Drew (D-Cape May).

Both house of the legislature unanimously approved the measure in late June. Christie signed the measure Wednesday.